FG releases 7 guidelines for schools to reopen on January 18

Farouk Mohammed January 14, 2021

1 minute read

The federal government has released seven guidelines for schools to resume academic activities on January 18, 2021.

Okay.ng understands that the guidelines was contained in a statement issued Ministry of Education’s Director, Press and Public Relations, Bem Goong, on Thursday.

According to the statement, the decision to reopen schools and review the COVID-19 protocols was sequel to a comprehensive appraisal of the situation.

The statement reads: “Sequel to the hint given during the press briefing on 12 January 2021 for the review of the proposed resumption date of 18th January 2021, the Federal Ministry of Education has undertaken a comprehensive appraisal of the situation.

“After extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders, including State Governors, Commissioners of Education, Proprietors and heads of institutions, staff unions and students, the consensus of opinion is that the resumption date of 18th January should remain, while parents and respective institutions must ensure full compliance with COVID-19 protocols including:

(i) Compulsory wearing of Facemasks by all students, teachers and workers in all schools

(ii) Temperature checks and handwashing facilities at strategic locations in all schools

(iii) Ensuring constant supply of water and sanitizers

(iv) Enforcement of maintenance of social distancing and suspension of large gatherings such as assembly and visiting days.

(v) Avoiding overcrowding, including limitations in class sizes and hostel occupancy

(vi) Availability of functional health clinics with facilities for isolation and transportation of suspected cases to medical facilities

(vii) Adherence to all other non-pharmaceutical protocols, restrictions and containment measures as may be prescribed/ approved by the PTF from time to time.

“These measures which are to ensure safe reopening of schools for academic activities will be subject to constant review as we urge teachers, school administrators and other stakeholders to ensure strict compliance.”